Post-war MG sports cars have become a regular feature of DVCA sales, so much so that the vendor of this motor car, well known in the world of historic vehicles, was drawn to this auction thanks to DVCA achieving the highest UK auction price during 2019 for the similar, but later, TF.

Dating from 1953, this TD Midget was subject to an older restoration during a 40 year period of ownership extending from 1976 to 2006. The work involved a new ash frame, a body restoration and repaint, and the fitment of an XPAG 1,250 cc Gold Seal engine.

This is a motor car to take to the open road, one to be enjoyed as it was in its postwar heyday when it lifted the spirits of largely young men who had survived the conflict and sought new adventures. They were not about out-and-out speed, even though they were quick in their day, but more about flinging along country routes, the exhaust note bouncing off the roadside banks. In this respect, nothing has changed apart from the system now being stainless steel.

While fitted with a canvas hood described as in fair condition, the next owner will more likely take advantage of the very good tonneau cover, leaving the canvas stowed and the black leather seats exposed to the elements while on the move.

As was original, the motor car is fitted with steel wheels, although now shod with modern radials to improve driveability. It has been in the vendor’s ownership for the past 11 years and is accompanied by copious paperwork including a ring file of invoices from 1977 to 2015, several pages of handwritten notes, and a letter from the owner of 40 years detailing work done. Boxes of parts are also provided, along with MG marque books and magazines, MoT test certificates from 1967 to April 2018 (the last issued, with no advisories), and a current V5C certificate.